It glories in its silliness, and the actors are permitted the sort of goofy acting that distinguished screwball comedy. We get double takes, slow burns, pratfalls, exploding clothes wardrobes, dropped trays, tear-away dresses, missing maids of honor, overnight fame, public disgrace and not, amazingly, a single obnoxious cat or dog.

Parents need to know that although most of the content in this by-the-book romantic comedy is age-appropriate for older tweens and young teens (there's little swearing and drinking and no nudity or violence), it's swimming in consumerism and high-end product placement and reinforces some broad stereotypes about women. Despite being chastened in the end, the main character seems downright naïve -- and a tad unapologetic -- about her shop-'til-you're-bankrupt ways. Kids may enjoy the fantasy, but parents may find that the frothy "escapism" feels out of place in these unsettled economic times.

Families can talk about Rebecca's nonstop shopping and spending. Is her behavior really all that unusual, or do lots of people overspend? What makes shopping so addictive for some people? And what are the real-life consequences of behavior like Rebecca's? Do you think the movie makes her behavior seem acceptable? Is she intended to be a role model? If so, what "lessons" is she teaching teen girls about responsibility? In the end, what message do you think the movie sends teens about the importance of high-end brands and having lots of stuff?

The good stuff

Messages: A woman shops endlessly despite being deeply in debt and lies to everyone about her habit -- she even riles up a Shopaholics Anonymous meeting and nearly has everyone running to the mall. But she means well and clearly values friendships and relationships. Still, her character could be seen as reinforcing several broad stereotypes about women, from being fashion-obssessed to being clueless about money. The movie also emphasizes consumption and materialism in a time when many moviegoers are facing severe financial struggles.

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